Dear Billie,
My heartfelt wishes go out to you during this difficult time. The intense emptiness that you feel is something that only time can heal. Instinctively, you feel the need to socialize because you need to feel connected to someone in some way. I think people that have experienced this type of loss are more compassionate to how you are feeling, but those who haven't experienced it don't realy understand and your sorrow just brings them down. Either way, it can leave you feeling very lonely as you are uncertain about who you could call to just talk to.

However, socializing can be of great comfort to you and there are ways to do that without involving family or friends. There are support groups for people like yourself where you could just vent your feelings and frustrations without any concern for anyone else. It could be a wonderful release for you and you never know who you may become friendly with. Another way to socialize is to do some volunteering. All hospitals, nursing homes, and so forth are always looking for volunteers.

I have found that the best way for me to pick myself up is through volunteering. It's amazing how quickly I get involved in helping others and then my own problems seem so slight compared to theirs. It is also rewarding to help others and this is a great lift for our spirits!

I wish you well and please know that you are never, ever alone.

Bryanna